Our Mission: Ebony Horsewomen’s mission is to empower youth and guide them toward successful lives through the use of the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning-(EAGALA) model. We use equine assisted therapy and therapeutic riding, along with educational programs, to cultivate leaders, prevent high-risk behavior, and encourage academic achievement.

Our History Founded by Patricia E. Kelly in 1984, Ebony Horsewomen, Inc. was initially started as a cultural enrichment organization made up of African-American female equestrians who operated community programs and rode in rodeos, like the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo and the Black World Championship Rodeo. The Ebony Horsewomen has ridden in numerous parades across the country, including the prestigious Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, which marked the first time in the parade’s 100-year history an African-American all-female equestrian group was invited to participate.

ExperienceEbony Horsewomen has a certified team of mental health professionals and horse specialists who are certified in Equine Assisted Growth and Learning from the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA), an international leader in equine therapy.

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) incorporate horses experientially for emotional growth and learning. We work collaboratively with a licensed therapist and a horse professional to help our mentees and horses address treatment needs. Participants learn about themselves, and others, via hands-on activities with the horses, and then processing (or discussing) feelings, behaviors, and patterns.

While we teach our program participants how to work and bond with horses, Ebony Horsewomen’s primary focus is on education and preparatory skills as defined by the individual or group.

Equine Assisted Growth and Learning is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has an incredible impact on individuals, youth, families, and groups. This approach addresses a variety of mental health and human development needs, including behavioral issues, attention deficit disorder, PTSD, substance abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship problems and communication needs.

Why We Use HorsesHorses are large, gentle and very powerful animals; and are often viewed as unpredictable and intimidating. Approaching, interacting, and mounting a horse prompts a person to confront any fears and insecurities they may have. Working with horses encourages youth to learn how to maintain control, work through their feelings, and move toward healing, in spite of any underlying lack of confidence or hurdles. Our program participants also discover the exhilaration and health benefits of horseback riding, especially if past fears have been hindered them from participating in physical activities. Horses are mirrors to our emotions, and they have an uncanny ability to teach us about ourselves.

Our professional EAGALA certified and nurturing staff offers support for positive youth development.

EHW offers summer camp and year-round activities where kids experience the slower pace of life. We provide an environment that allows them to interact with nature and other animals. Our program counselors create an environment where boys and girls between the ages of 5-17 feel safe, in a unique urban agricultural environment that’s as placid as any equestrian facility in a rural area. Our program participants develop real friendships and opportunities for true growth and development, and memories that last a lifetime.